Iran’s Revolutionary Guard stated this Wednesday (4) that it has “complete control” of the Strait of Hormuz, a strategic point for global oil trade and the focus of growing tension in the conflict involving Iran, the United States and Israel.
“Currently, the Strait of Hormuz is under full control of the Islamic Republic Navy,” said Revolutionary Guards naval officer Mohammad Akbarzadeh, according to a statement released by the Iranian agency Fars.
The maritime passage connects the Persian Gulf to the Gulf of Oman and is responsible for the flow of around a fifth of all oil traded in the world.
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The statements come as maritime traffic in the region faces significant disruptions. Shipping companies and logistics operators report vessels grounded and alternative routes being assessed following attacks on oil tankers and Iranian threats to block passage.
According to data from consultancy Clarksons Research, around 3,200 ships, equivalent to approximately 4% of global tonnage, are currently stopped in the Gulf. Another around 500 ships are waiting outside the region, close to ports in the United Arab Emirates and Oman.
Despite the restrictions, an oil tanker recently made an unusual crossing of the strait towards the United Arab Emirates to load oil, according to maritime tracking data.
The increase in tension raised the price of oil. Brent surpassed US$83 per barrel, accumulating an increase of more than 13% since the start of the conflict and reaching the highest level since July 2024.
In the United States, President Donald Trump stated on Tuesday (3) that a. In a publication on the Truth Social network, he said that the measure will be implemented “as quickly as possible”.
“No matter what happens, the United States will ensure the free flow of energy to the world,” Trump wrote.
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The partial closure of the strait has already led countries dependent on Gulf oil to seek alternative routes. The Pakistani government reported that it has asked Saudi Arabia to redirect part of its exports through the port of Yanbu, on the Red Sea, to guarantee energy supplies.
(com Reuters)
